Students interested in attending one of the best affordable colleges for public relations degrees needs to look no further. Our Affordable Schools team has compiled the 15 best cost-effective programs in public relations. Students who wish to major in public relations have a passion for psychology, marketing, love speaking to people, and are driven in their career goals. Many times, they already have practice with public relations, such as their online presence on social media platforms, and are looking for a way to turn it into a career.
This ranking of the best low-cost undergraduate public relations programs in the United States will be of great help to these students. With programs that focus on the quality and flexibility of the curriculum, as well as experiential opportunities, students will no doubt find at least one program that fits their needs. Additionally, with information on the degree’s requirements as well as discussion of any concentrations that may be available, students will also be prepared for their degree just by taking a look at this list.
Methodology
Each ranking completed on this website goes through rigorous research to ensure that information is accurate and reflects the program’s current information by utilizing the National Center for Education Statistics website and its free and publicly available College Navigator. We set our search parameters to include schools that offered a bachelor’s degree in public relations.
There are two factors that were given points, which is how this ranking was designed. The first is tuition as it plays an important role in whether a student decides to attend a certain school. For the purposes of this ranking, only schools that had a total annual tuition of $15,000 or less as reported by NCES were considered for this ranking.
Tuition for one year – based on 15 hours per semester:
Under $7,500 – 3 Points
$7,500 – $15,000 – 2 Points
$15,001 and above – 1 Point
The second factor was the student-to-faculty ratio as stated by NCES. Smaller class sizes have been shown to increase individualized attention and a greater sense of commitment to a program, which is why it has been assigned points. Additionally, research has found that small class sizes lead to higher retention and graduation rates, increasing the chances that a student will stick to a program and graduate.
Student to faculty ratio:
10:1 or less – 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1 – 2 Points
Greater than 15:1 – 1 Point
Only 15 schools made the cut. They are listed below in descending order based on the total amount of points the school was awarded during the research process.
Ranking 15 Best Affordable Public Relations Degrees (Bachelor’s) 2019
15. Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Total Points: 3
Program Website
Eastern Michigan University confers a low-cost public relations degree that will be a great choice for students interested in the global aspect of the industry. This affordable 124-credit hour, interdisciplinary public relations degree program will provide a strong foundation in the field as well as several skills that are necessary to be impactful as a public relations professional. Inexpensive public relations courses range from crisis management to social media and everything in between, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in this program. Students will also be given the opportunity to complete an internship, combining all of their knowledge and skills into a work experience that can help them understand the field from a professional’s point of view. The goal of this top-value public relations degree program is to graduate professionals who can hit the ground running right after graduation, making this one of the top schools for students interested in a low-cost, high-quality education.
Tuition
In-State: $12,508
Out-of-State: $12,508
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
14. Ferris State University
Big Rapids, Michigan
Total Points: 3
Program Website
The affordable public relations degree that is offered by Ferris State University is designed for students who are interested in completing a degree that combines the business and public relations field. This is also one of 35 programs nationwide that provide a pathway for national certification in public relations, the Certification in Education for Public Relations. While the economical BS in Public Relations is a business-oriented degree, students will find that the program has a strong focus in public relations. This inexpensive public relations degree program is designed to be cost-effective for all students as well, so tuition is the same for both in-state and out-of-state residents, creating an opportunity for individuals interested in earning certification to also attend this school.
Tuition
In-State: $11,788
Out-of-State: $11,788
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
13. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Total Points: 3
Program Website
Eastern Kentucky University confers the low-cost BA in Public Relations, a program that is certified by the Public Relations Society of America. This cheap public relations degree program is supported by small class sizes, a faculty with real-world experience, and a variety of facilities on campus that will no doubt be helpful to their education. The school hosts a department that offers three Mac labs with design software, podcast and video production studios on-site, an audio production lab, and a student media center. Additionally, students can also become members of the Public Relations Student Society of America, a club that offers various hands-on learning opportunities for students.
Tuition
In-State: $9,666
Out-of-State: $19,444
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
12. South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota
Total Points: 3
Program Website
South Dakota State University has an affordable online public relations degree that accompanies the school’s on-campus version, providing students with flexibility in terms of how their degree is earned. Students can choose between the cheap Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Sciences for their degree; both programs are accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. Students will find that the degree is comprehensive and requires an internship as well as other hands-on learning experiences. Digital media and public relations electives are also available, providing students with an exceptional education that combines technology and public relations into one degree. Free electives can also be taken to ensure that students earn a well-rounded education.
Tuition
In-State: $8,764
Out-of-State: $12,128
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
11. Black Hills State University
Spearfish, South Dakota
Total Points: 3
Program Website
Black Hills State University offers a top-value public relations degree that is inexpensive and high-quality. This school offers students the chance to complete a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication with a concentration in public relations. The school also offers a low-cost certificate in social media at the undergraduate level, making it a great choice for students who wish to specialize in the field. This affordable public relations degree program is continuously updated as technology changes the nature of the field, so students are encouraged to speak with an admissions advisor to learn about specific requirements for the degree. However, an internship and other hands-on opportunities are available at the school. Students can put their skills to use at the student-run newspaper, radio and tv stations or become a member of the Public Relations Club, which also offers practical experiences.
Tuition
In-State: $8,733
Out-of-State: $11,778
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
10. Missouri Western State University
St. Joseph, Missouri
Total Points: 3
Program Website
The best-value affordable public relations degree at Missouri Western State University focuses on teaching students the practical skills they need in order to become accomplished professionals. Students in this inexpensive 120-credit hour Bachelor of Science in Public Relations program will find that they will have ample opportunities to work with real clients, work on projects in teams and learn from professionals who also serve as their instructors. Courses range from copy editing to health communication to public relations practices, giving students a strong foundation in the skills and practices they will need to embody in the field.
Tuition
In-State: $7,960
Out-of-State: $13,835
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
9. West Texas A&M University
Canyon, Texas
Total Points: 3
Program Website
West Texas A&M University confers an inexpensive public relations degree. The school offers students the choice between a cheap BA or BS in Media Communication with an emphasis in advertising and public relations. The affordable public relations degrees were created to prepare students to take on leadership roles while also providing them with the knowledge and skills to work in a variety of mediums, such as audio, video, and digital mediums. Students can also take part in research projects spearheaded by faculty members, take on internships, and take part in the WT Leadership Mentoring program, a program designed to enhance a student’s ability to lead a process. This all comes from a highly respected degree that is accredited by the American Communication Association.
Tuition
In-State: $7,935
Out-of-State: $9,304
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
8. Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, Missouri
Total Points: 3
Program Website
Northwest Missouri State University is one of the most affordable colleges for public relations degrees. This school confers both a cheap BA and BS in Communication: Public Relations. This inexpensive 122-credit hour public relations degree program is both cheap and exciting, with students being taught by practicing professionals and having the chance to take on practical experiences. The school is also home to Knacktive, an excellent course that combines a variety of disciplines, including public relations, into an interactive and collaborative learning experience. The course focuses on creating a campaign for a real-world client that will provide students with a workplace experience that will be helpful to them in the future. Students can also study abroad at this school, allowing them to get a feel for international public relations. Additionally, this school has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top moderately selective regional universities three times in the past four years, making it an excellent option for students.
Tuition
In-State: $7,844
Out-of-State: $13,166
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
7. The University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, Missouri
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Central Missouri confers the affordable BS in Public Relations, a top-value program that has a public-focused approach while also incorporating results-driven communication studies. This school’s cost-effective public relations degree program is incredible, offering students everything from public relations-specific scholarships to internships with major companies to even offering opportunities to work with alumni. The inexpensive public relations degree program also offers several extra-curricular options for interested students, including participation in the Public Relations Student Society of America, Innovation Public Relations, which is the school’s own student-led agency, The National Millennial Community/Gen Z Council, an opportunity to meet and interacting with public relations professionals from all over the world, and even study abroad opportunities. The school is also academically comprehensive and has been approved by the Public Relations Society of America.
Tuition
In-State: $7,673
Out-of-State: $14,442
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
6. Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Franklin University is home to an affordable online public relations degree as well as an on-campus program. The top-value BS in Public Relations offers both on-campus and online learning options, making it a great choice for students who want a little flexibility in their degree. This low-cost 124-semester hour public relations degree program has a strong core that includes courses such as Media and Crisis Communication, Client Engagement, and Public Relations and Promotional Strategy. Students will also learn a variety of skills that range from publicity to internal communications to social and digital media. Students at this school enjoy extremely small class sizes, a faculty that is experienced in the field, and one tuition rate for all students, regardless of residency.
Tuition
In-State: $12,649
Out-of-State: $12,649
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
5. Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, Illinois
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Eastern Illinois University, one of the most affordable colleges for public relations degrees, offers a top-value BA in Journalism with a concentration in public relations. The journalism department is backed by many experienced faculty members and a variety of hands-on learning opportunities such as the student-run PR firm The Agency, print publications such as student newspaper The Daily Eastern News, and student media such as the student-run television and radio station WEIU-TV and -FM. EIU is a great choice for students, especially if they want to work in the journalism or entertainment fields. With courses that range from online journalism to publication design, students will be well-prepared to take on any role within the public relations field.
Tuition
In-State: $11,803
Out-of-State: $14,023
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
4. Mississippi Valley State University
Itta Bena, Mississippi
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The best affordable BA in Mass Communication/Public Relations that is offered by Mississippi Valley State University is a comprehensive program that covers all of the foundational aspects of the field. Students will find that much of the 120-credit hour low-cost public relations degree program will be spent on learning the concepts and practices of the field, preparing them to work as professionals straight after graduation. The final year in the program will require more hands-on experiences, such as research projects, an internship, and studios. By the time students complete their degree, they will have had some experience in all the major facets of the field; additionally, they will be supported by an incredible faculty and staff and an inexpensive tuition rate.
Tuition
In-State: $6,550
Out-of-State: $6,550
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
3. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Total Points: 4
Progam Website
The cheap Bachelor of Science in Public Relations is a professionally-focused degree that is perfect for students who are interested in attending a program in the greater Atlanta area. One of the most affordable colleges for a public relations degrees, Kennesaw State University is one of just three schools in the state to offer a public relations-specific degree, which is important in Atlanta as it grows into an entertainment mecca. Students will find that the 120-credit inexpensive public relations degree program focuses on classroom studies as well as practical experiences equally, providing them with a balanced degree. Students will have courses that range from case study analysis to social media and more, which then translates into study tours and internships that will put that knowledge to work. Additionally, students can also participate in the school’s student-run public relations agency, which can help them earn college credit while strengthening their skills.
Tuition
In-State: $6,347
Out-of-State: $17,329
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
2. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, Florida
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The cheap BS in Public Relations that is offered by Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is an incredible choice for students. This 125-credit hour affordable public relations degree program was designed for students who are interested in working in the field in a variety of different specializations. Students at FAMU will have the chance to complete a comprehensive curriculum while also conducting research and participating in the school’s student-run media clubs, enhancing their understanding of the knowledge taught in their courses. This is a great school for students interested in the digital media space as well and should be seriously considered by every student.
Tuition
In-State: $5,785
Out-of-State: $17,725
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
1. Brigham Young University of Provo
Provo, Utah
Total Points: 4
Program Website
The Brigham Young University of Provo, our top-ranked best affordable college for a public relations degree, confers a best-value BA in Communications: Public Relations. This inexpensive public relations degree program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework and is comprehensive in nature. Students will find that the university gives them flexibility in the curriculum, choosing to provide a list of directed electives instead of a curriculum that is rigid. Students will also note that this program is competitive; only 200 students are accepted every year, providing the small class sizes and individualized attention that the school is known for. Students will have ample opportunity for practical experience through the required internship, enabling them to pull together all of their knowledge and skills to demonstrate that they are ready to head into the workforce after graduation.
Tuition
In-State: $5,620
Out-of-State: $5,620
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for Affordable Public Relations Degree Graduates?
Public relations is a field that lends itself well to most other industries, meaning that students will be able to work in a wide range of fields after graduation. Since an undergraduate degree is what most professionals have under their belt, it’s also a good field for students who want to go straight into work after graduation. Here are just a few of the many careers possible with a Bachelor’s in Public Relations:
-
- Public Relations Specialist
- Event Manager
- Marketing Coordinator
- Political Campaign Manager
- Government Affairs Specialist
- Direct Marketing Spokesperson
- Social Media Manager
- Art Director
- Media Planner
- Production Coordinator
- Advertising Account Executive
- Investor Relations Specialist
- Marketing Executive
- Public Information Officer
- Sales Promotion Account Executive
Students should keep in mind that some of the careers available in the field, both listed and unlisted above, may require additional professional education and training. However, this is most likely completed as a distance education program or through a series of workshops and conferences, meaning that students will not have to complete a graduate degree in the field. It is worth researching what possibilities could become a reality just by completing a certificate or a professional training program.
What is the Salary Potential for a Degree in Public Relations?
According to PayScale, the average salary for a professional with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations is currently $51,000. However, with some work experience and professional education, students can reasonably earn over $100,000. This range includes careers that are available in all fields, in both the public and private sector, and contract and long-term employment options.
Students will note that while it is more than feasible to find a job at a public relations firm or a company, many public relations professionals choose to work for themselves. They are known as freelancers or contract employers, meaning they work on projects and get paid for their contributions for that project only rather than be on the payroll of a company. This is becoming more common, especially in the digital media space, because younger professionals are interested in having a lot of different experiences prior to choosing just one specialization. Additionally, professionals who choose to become freelancers often find their specialization through their work and can command higher wages due to their portfolio of work in the field.
Freelance work can be difficult at first because wages are earned on a project-by-project basis and they will need to learn how to budget their taxes and run their own business. However, should a student choose to take business courses while at the undergraduate level, this will not be a difficult feat and will enable them to take charge of their finances.
What Makes Up a Public Relations Degree?
The main disciplines of public relations consist of sociology, psychology, marketing, communications, digital media, negotiation, conflict resolution, and journalism. The field is all about communication, so this is the one field that takes precedence over the others, but it is also fair to say that history, politics, economics and law also play a role as in the United States, there are rules and regulations regarding the field, especially for the government.
There are also sub-disciplines within PR which correspond to different industries. Students may find these difficult to obtain at the undergraduate level, but this is because they can learn more about the industry while on the job. Most industries are more apt to hire a professional if that professional has some background in the field, so students who have the option to complete a minor in the industry they’re most interested in working in are encouraged to do so.
Some of the most respected and sought-after specializations include politics, entertainment, and business. This is because these industries thrive or fail depending on a company’s ability to convey their message well. Politicians, entertainers and businesspeople often work with a public relations firm to enhance their image, thus creating public relations jobs in these specific areas.
Public relations is still the way that most people get their information, especially about specific topics. It is fair to say that most businesses or entities, including the government, utilize public relations in day-to-day operations to ensure that the general public is receiving a consistent message about that entity. Students who are interested in helping to mold targeted messages as a career should definitely enroll in a public relations bachelor’s degree, and with the best affordable colleges for a public relations degree listed above, they should have no trouble finding a program that fits their needs.
AS Staff
August 2019
This concludes our ranking of the 15 Best Affordable Colleges for a Public Relations Degree (Bachelor’s) for 2019.
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